Facing an unplanned pregnancy is hard enough. Worrying about money on top of it can make everything feel impossible. If you are in New Orleans and thinking about adoption, you may be wondering whether any real financial support actually exists, or whether you would be on your own through the whole process. 

The good news is that adoption financial assistance in New Orleans is available for birth mothers, and it covers more than most people realize. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, supporting birth mothers is not an afterthought. It is a core part of how we work.

We will walk you through what kinds of financial help may be available, what expenses adoption can cover, and how St. Elizabeth Foundation helps women in New Orleans get the support they deserve, from the first phone call all the way through post-placement counseling.

Why Financial Support for Birth Mothers Exists

Many people do not know that financial help for birth mothers is a recognized, legal part of the adoption process. It exists because placing a baby for adoption is not easy, emotionally or practically. A birth mother should not have to choose between getting the support she needs and making the best decision for her baby.

According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, adoption agencies can provide pregnancy-related assistance to birth mothers as part of an adoption plan. This is not charity. It is support that helps women go through the process with dignity and stability.

If you are looking into unplanned pregnancy financial help in New Orleans, understanding what is available early on can help you make a clearer, calmer decision.

What Expenses Does Adoption Cover for Birth Mothers?

This is one of the most common questions women ask, and it is a fair one. Here is a straightforward breakdown of the types of support that adoption agencies such as St. Elizabeth Foundation may provide as part of an adoption plan.

Medical Costs

Prenatal care, labor, delivery, and any related medical needs connected to the pregnancy can be part of the assistance offered through an adoption plan. Birth mothers should not have to avoid doctor visits because of cost.

Living Expenses

Adoption living expenses in Louisiana can include help with rent, utilities, food, and other basic needs during the pregnancy. Life does not stop because you are pregnant. These needs are real, and an ethical adoption agency recognizes that.

Legal Costs

Adoption involves legal paperwork and court processes. A trusted adoption agency in New Orleans should help birth mothers understand their legal rights and cover costs associated with the legal aspects tied to the adoption plan.

Counseling Costs

Emotional support is not optional in adoption: it is essential. With St. Elizabeth Foundation, counseling costs are always included for birth mothers, and they are offered for the lifetime of the birth mom. This makes sure birth mothers have someone to talk to at every stage, not just during the legal steps.

It is important to note that the specifics of what is covered can vary by state, agency, and individual circumstances. Louisiana has guidelines on what is legally permissible regarding birth mother assistance. Always confirm the details of what is covered with a licensed adoption professional or attorney before making any decisions.

The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services is a useful resource for learning more about state-level adoption guidelines.

How St. Elizabeth Foundation Provides Adoption Financial Assistance in New Orleans

St. Elizabeth Foundation has been helping birth mothers and adoptive families in Louisiana for decades. Our approach is built around one simple idea: caring for birth mothers and helping build happy families.

When it comes to adoption financial assistance in New Orleans, St. Elizabeth Foundation provides pregnancy-related assistance, including help with living, medical, legal, and counseling costs, all connected to the adoption plan. Here is how that support is structured and what to expect.

Step 1: Reach Out: No Commitment Required

You can contact St. Elizabeth Foundation by phone, email, or text. Reaching out does not mean you have made a decision. It just means you want information. That is a perfectly reasonable first step.

Step 2: Confidential Counseling Comes First

Before any plan is made, you will meet with a counselor. This is a private, judgment-free conversation. You can talk about your fears, your situation, and your options, — including parenting, adoption, and anything else on your mind. This is free adoption help in New Orleans at its most practical.

The Office on Women’s Health emphasizes that women facing unplanned pregnancies deserve access to informed, compassionate guidance about all their options. St. Elizabeth Foundation takes that seriously.

Step 3: Create an Adoption Plan That Fits You

If you decide adoption is the right path for you, you will work with the team to build a plan that reflects your wishes. You get to choose the adoptive family. You also choose the type of adoption that feels right to you: open, semi-open, or closed.

This level of control matters. Birth mother financial help in Louisiana is not just about money. It is about having the support, information, and power to make a real choice.

Step 4: Receive Pregnancy Assistance

Once your adoption plan is in place, St. Elizabeth Foundation can provide assistance with living, medical, legal, and counseling costs tied to the plan. This is where the financial support becomes concrete and practical.

Step 5: Post-Placement Counseling

Support continues after birth. St. Elizabeth Foundation offers post-placement counseling regardless of which adoption option you choose. This step is often overlooked, but it matters deeply. The weeks and months after placement can be emotionally intense, and having ongoing support can help you heal and move forward.

What Makes This Support Different From Other Options

There is no shortage of places offering financial support for pregnant women in New Orleans, but not all of them are connected to a real, licensed adoption agency that will walk with you through the whole process.

Common Concerns Birth Mothers Have About Financial Help

“Does accepting financial help mean I have to go through with adoption?”

No. Financial support is connected to an adoption plan, but counseling begins before any plan is finalized. You are never pressured into a decision. The counseling step exists specifically to help you think clearly about all your options.

“Is this legal?”

Yes, when it comes from a licensed adoption agency following state guidelines. Louisiana, like all states, has rules about what kind of assistance is permitted. An ethical agency like St. Elizabeth Foundation will always operate within those rules. If you have questions about what is legally allowed, confirm the specifics with a licensed adoption professional or attorney.

“Will I have any say in what happens to my baby?”

Absolutely. When you place your baby for adoption in New Orleans through St. Elizabeth Foundation, you choose the adoptive family. You also decide the level of openness you want in the adoption relationship going forward.

Helpful Resources to Learn More

• Child Welfare Information Gateway – Adoption
• Louisiana DCFS – Adoption
• Office on Women’s Health – Unplanned Pregnancy
• St. Elizabeth Foundation Resources 

These resources can help you understand your broader options and ask better questions when you connect with an adoption professional.

You Do Not Have To Figure This Out Alone

If you are searching for adoption financial assistance in New Orleans, you already deserve credit for looking for information. That takes courage.

St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to walk with you, not rush you, not pressure you, and not judge you. Whether you are in the early stages of processing an unplanned pregnancy or you have already started considering adoption in New Orleans, our team is ready to listen.

Reach out to St. Elizabeth Foundation today for a confidential conversation. It does not cost anything to call, and it does not commit you to any plan. It is simply a chance to get real answers from a compassionate team that has been helping Louisiana birth mothers for years.

You deserve support. You deserve clarity. And you deserve to make your decision with care.

If you are trying to understand the adoption process in Shreveport, it helps to have clear, simple information from a trusted source. For many families and expectant parents, the process can feel emotional and hard to sort through at first. It also raises practical questions about counseling, legal steps, family choice, and support. Explore the adoption process in Shreveport and how St. Elizabeth Foundation supports birth parents and adoptive families through each step. Whether you are looking for an adoption agency near Shreveport, LA, want to learn how to place your baby for adoption near Shreveport, or are researching infant adoption near Shreveport, this overview can help you know what to expect.

Quick Answer: What Is the Adoption Process in Shreveport?

The adoption process in Shreveport usually begins when an expectant parent contacts an adoption professional for counseling and support. From there, the process may include making an adoption plan, choosing an adoptive family, receiving help with medical, legal, and living needs, creating a hospital plan, and completing legal paperwork after birth according to Louisiana law.

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, the process for birth parents generally includes:

1. Reaching out for help
2. Meeting with a counselor
3. Choosing a family
4. Receiving pregnancy-related support
5. Making a delivery plan
6. Deciding on the type of adoption
7. Getting post-placement counseling

That step-by-step approach can make the adoption process in Shreveport feel more manageable.

Step 1: Reach Out for Information and Support

The first step is simply making contact. A pregnant woman or new mother who is unsure of what to do can call or email St. Elizabeth Foundation. This first conversation is meant to provide support, not pressure.

For a birth mother in Shreveport, Louisiana, this early step matters because it creates space to ask honest questions about parenting, adoption, and available resources. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we offer counseling to help birth mothers make the best decision for themselves and their baby.

If you are searching for an adoption agency near Shreveport, this first point of contact is often where the process becomes clearer and less overwhelming.

Step 2: Start Counseling and Learn Your Options

Counseling is a central part of the process. Birth parents can meet with counselors to discuss their options and make an adoption plan if adoption feels right for them.

This is an important part of the adoption steps a Louisiana birth mother may go through. The goal is not just paperwork. It is support, education, and planning.

Topics often include:

• Parenting and adoption options
• Open, semi-open, and closed adoption
• What happens at the hospital
• Legal timing for consent in Louisiana
• Emotional support before and after birth

We also provide free, confidential counseling before birth and after placement for as long as you need. That ongoing support is a key part of the adoption process in Shreveport. For general state information on adoption and foster care in Louisiana, families can also review resources from AdoptUSKids.

Step 3: Choose the Adoptive Family

One of the most important facts to know is that birth parents can choose the adoptive family. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we guide prospective adoptive parents in creating family profile books for birth parents to review when they are ready.

For someone wondering how to place a baby for adoption near Shreveport, this step often brings a sense of control and reassurance. You are not giving up the right to decide who will raise your child. You can review families and choose the one that feels right to you.

This family choice process is also central to infant adoption in Shreveport, since matching is often based on the birth parent’s preferences, values, and hopes for the child’s future.

Step 4: Understand Adoption Types and Future Contact

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we offer three adoption options:

• Open adoption
• Semi-open adoption
• Closed adoption

In an open adoption, there may be direct contact through visits, calls, emails, or letters if both sides agree. In a semi-open adoption, St. Elizabeth helps manage communication while respecting boundaries. In a closed adoption, there is no contact after placement, though medical history may still be shared.

This matters because the adoption process in Shreveport is not one-size-fits-all. Birth parents can have a voice in how much future contact they want.

Step 5: Get Help With Practical Needs

A major concern for many women facing an unplanned pregnancy is money. SAt St. Elizabeth Foundation, we may provide support with living, medical, legal, and counseling costs related to your pregnancy and adoption plan.

People searching for adoption financial assistance in Shreveport and other Louisiana communities want to understand what help may be available statewide. This support may include pregnancy-related expenses as allowed under Louisiana law and agency policy. Because each adoption is unique, it is best to ask an adoption professional directly what support may be available in your circumstances.

This practical support is part of what makes the adoption process in Shreveport more workable for some women. It can also reduce stress during pregnancy.

Step 6: Make a Hospital and Delivery Plan

As the due date gets closer, the birth parent can work with the agency to make a hospital plan. 

This may include:

• Who is in the room during labor and delivery
• How much time the birth parent wants with the baby
• When the adoptive family is involved
• What happens before discharge

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we help birth parents make decisions about the birth and finalize the adoption plan after the baby is born. For someone hoping to place a baby for adoption in Shreveport, this step gives structure during a very emotional time.

Step 7: Complete the Legal Adoption Steps

Louisiana law has specific rules on consent and surrender. According to our resource toolkit, a birth mother may sign a voluntary surrender of parental rights on the third day following the birth, not counting the day of birth. This is a permanent legal decision.

That is why the legal part of the adoption process in Shreveport should always be handled with qualified professionals. If you are looking for an adoption agency near Shreveport, LA, ask direct questions about legal support, timing, consent, and your rights under Louisiana law.

Step 8: Receive Post-Placement Counseling and Support

Adoption does not end when placement happens. Post-placement counseling is available after birth, and confidential counseling can continue for as long as needed.

This is one of the most overlooked parts of the adoption process. Emotional support after placement can be just as important as support during pregnancy. It can help birth parents process grief, healing, and next steps.

What Adoptive Families Should Know

Although this guide focuses heavily on birth-parent steps, the adoptive side also matters. Prospective adoptive parents must have remained a married couple for at least five years to adopt from St. Elizabeth. They must apply, complete a home study, participate in education, create a family profile, and work through legal finalization after placement.

Final Thoughts on the Adoption Process in Shreveport

The adoption process in Shreveport includes counseling, family selection, practical support, legal guidance, and post-placement care. For women asking how to place a baby for adoption in Shreveport, the key point is this: you do not have to figure everything out on your own. Support is available, and you can make informed choices at each stage.

Whether you’re an expectant parent considering adoption, a family looking to adopt, or someone searching for an adoption agency near Shreveport, we’re here to help. St. Elizabeth Foundation provides a clear path, confidential counseling, and pregnancy-related assistance to help you make a confident decision. Reach out to us today to get the accurate information and support you need by contacting us on our website or giving us a call.

Are you pregnant and considering adoption, but don’t know how to place a baby for adoption in Louisiana? With the help of a caring adoption agency, you can find the best placement options for your baby. These experts can walk you through each decision, offer counseling services, and support you before and after the birth. And once you’ve determined that adoption is the best choice for you, it’s time to find the right agency to help with placement. If you need assistance to place your baby for adoption in Louisiana, here are five ways that St. Elizabeth Foundation can assist.

1. Choose the Right Adoption Agency for Your Baby

The first step of the adoption process is to find an adoption agency. If you want to place your baby for adoption in Louisiana, let St. Elizabeth Foundation be your hub for support. Our adoption agency, founded in 1988, was established to connect women grappling with unplanned pregnancies with a safe haven. From helping expectant mothers begin the adoption process to finding emotional aid through pre and post-placement counseling, we make sure that each mother knows she isn’t alone in her adoption process. For women across Louisiana, in cities such as Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, New Orleans, and more, our team goes above and beyond to ensure each expecting mother feels supported.

If you are searching for an adoption agency dedicated to helping you find solutions for an unexpected pregnancy, we would love to talk with you. We empower you to make the best possible decision for you and your baby. And with our guidance, we can connect you with the tools you need to move forward.

2. Determine Your Adoption & Birth Plans

The adoption agency you choose can help you establish your adoption and birth plans. Through St. Elizabeth Foundation, we make sure that you have power over every decision. These include the openness of the adoption, the adoptive family, and the hospital you would want to give birth in. Do you want the adoptive family present for the birth? Do you want to spend time with your baby after giving birth? Or would you rather have our adoption agency intervene? These are all questions to consider and discuss with our counselors. But remember — every decision is yours to make.

3. Browse & Choose Adoptive Family

St. Elizabeth Foundation makes it simple to find adoptive parents for your baby. And when you choose to place your baby for adoption through our Louisiana agency, you gain access to our long list of adopting families. Find families in-state or around the country who are excited to introduce a new baby to their home. Read their profiles, get to know their faces, and then determine which family you deem to be the best fit for your child. You then have the option to correspond with these parents or leave the communication to us if you prefer little to no contact.

4. Find Support Through Post-Placement Counseling

Once your adoption has been completed and your baby has been placed with the adoptive parents, the journey doesn’t end. Our caregivers at St. Elizabeth understand the variety of emotions that come with your pregnancy, birth, and adoption decisions. Even after finalizing the adoption, you may find yourself dealing with complex feelings. This is why we offer post-placement counseling to help you work through the ups and downs as they come. Understand that our adoption agency is dedicated to delivering care, respect, and compassion before, during, and after your adoption.

5. Keep Up With the Adoptive Family (In an Open or Semi-Open Adoption)

If you choose an open or semi-open adoption, this requires some level of communication with the baby and adoptive family. But after you place your baby for adoption, our Louisiana agency can help facilitate communication through phone calls, in-person visits, and letters. From texting to keeping up on social media, you can check in with your baby wherever you are. This, of course, depends on the adoption plan you opt for. If you choose to have a closed adoption, no further correspondence is required with the family.

Things To Consider Before Placing Your Baby for Adoption

Facing an unexpected pregnancy brings a wave of intense emotions. You might feel overwhelmed, scared, or entirely unsure about your next steps. Reaching out for professional unplanned pregnancy help can give you the clarity and support you need right now. Choosing adoption is a deeply personal and loving decision, but it requires careful thought and reflection before moving forward.

When you start researching how to place a baby for adoption in Louisiana, you will quickly discover that you are entirely in control of the process. You get to decide what your adoption journey looks like. Many people still use the outdated phrase putting a baby up for adoption, but the reality of modern adoption is much more empowering. You are not giving anything up; you are making a brave, proactive choice to provide a beautiful life for your child.

Who Do You Want To Adopt Your Child?

Before taking action, think deeply about the type of family and life you envision for your baby. Do you want them to grow up in a specific environment, have siblings, or practice a certain religion? When learning how to place a baby for adoption in Louisiana, you will find out that you get to choose the adoptive parents. You can review family profiles, ask detailed questions, and even meet them to ensure you feel complete peace with your decision.

What Level of Contact Do You Want?

You should also consider the level of contact you want to maintain with your child and the adoptive family as the years go by. Open adoption allows for ongoing communication, which can include letters, photo updates, or in-person visits. Figuring out your personal boundaries and preferences early makes it much easier to choose a trustworthy adoption agency in Louisiana that aligns with your specific goals. A compassionate agency will respect your voice and advocate for your choices.

What Support Do You Need?

Finally, think about the legal, emotional, and financial resources you might need during your pregnancy. Navigating how to place a baby for adoption in Louisiana means understanding that you never have to pay for adoption services. As an expectant mother, you can often receive assistance with medical bills, safe housing, and emotional counseling. Gathering this information and understanding your legal rights is the first step to place baby for adoption confidently.

Looking To Place Your Baby for Adoption in Louisiana? Let St. Elizabeth Foundation Help.

Choosing to place your baby for adoption in Louisiana is not an easy decision. Our team at St. Elizabeth Foundation knows the challenges and struggles you face, and we are ready to provide support along the way. Adoption is a brave and loving choice, and make sure that you have caregivers and counselors available to guide you throughout the journey. If you are ready to learn more about our adoption process, send us a message or call us at 225-769-8888.

If you are faced with an unplanned pregnancy, you can choose to keep your child, end your pregnancy, or place them for adoption. Both parenting your child and opting for abortion are permanent decisions that come with great emotional and financial consideration. With adoption through an established agency near Lafayette, you can instead connect your child to a home where they can receive the support they need. Don’t face the ups and downs of an unplanned pregnancy alone. If you are searching for a Lafayette adoption agency, find help, care, and support from St. Elizabeth Foundation in Baton Rouge! Are you wondering if placing your baby for adoption is the right choice for you? Here are five common reasons why birth mothers choose adoption for their children.

1. You Are Not Financially Ready for a Family

Having a baby and starting a family is expensive. In fact, raising a child to the age of 18 can cost over $230,000. While parenthood is a beautiful process, it can be a large stressor if it comes when you aren’t financially ready. How can you offer your baby the best life possible? Adoption can give your child the opportunity to grow up in a household with the financial support, medical and educational access, and stability they need.  

2. You Are Too Young to Be a Mom

You may find that you are not yet ready to be a mom, especially at a young age. You may not have the time, means, or desire to take on the full-time responsibility of parenthood. Adoption can help you pursue the best outcomes for you and your baby! With our adoption agency near Lafayette, you can find a judgment-free zone for planning your adoption process and meeting prospective adoptive parents. If you choose open or semi-open adoption, you can keep in contact with your baby and their adoptive parents while still being able to focus on your own growth.

3. You Don’t Want to Choose Abortion

It’s understandable to consider all of your options when determining what to do after an unplanned pregnancy. At St. Elizabeth’s, we make sure you know what options are available to you. Instead of jumping into a permanent decision, we urge you to consider the benefits of open, semi-open, or closed adoption types. If you are searching for a Lafayette adoption agency, don’t hesitate to reach out to us in Baton Rouge. Get in touch with us for free counseling services to understand each possibility ahead of you to find the right choice for you and your baby.

4. You Have Different Goals for Your Future

Your goals matter, and having a child may not be a part of your plan. You should be able to continue taking the steps towards reaching your goals. And at our adoption agency near Lafayette, we can help you move forward without sacrificing the well-being of your baby. Start by considering where you see your life in two years, five years, and ten years. If you do not see raising a child as a part of this, let our caring workers at St. Elizabeth’s help you learn what adoption possibilities you can find.

5. You Want Your Child to Grow Up in a Two-Parent Household

As a single mother, you may wish for your child to grow up in a home with two present and supportive parents. If you face raising your child alone, choosing adoption can give your baby a future in a complete household. At St. Elizabeth’s, our adopting families consist of a mother and father who have been married for at least five years. These families are excited to introduce a baby into their homes and provide them with love, support, and care. We can help you find the right family for your child!

Frequently Asked Questions About Adoption

We understand you have many questions about adoption. It’s a big decision, and we are here to provide clear answers and support you every step of the way. Here are some common questions we hear at our adoption agency near Lafayette.

What is the adoption process like?

The adoption process is a journey we walk through with you. It generally involves these steps:

1. Learning Your Options: We’ll talk with you about adoption and all your choices in a private, judgment-free space.
2. Making a Plan: You’ll create a personal adoption plan that feels right for you, deciding on things like the type of adoption and the family you’d like for your child.
3. Choosing a Family: You can look at profiles of loving, pre-screened families who are ready to welcome a child.
4. Placement: After your baby is born, we will help you with the legal steps to place your child with the adoptive family you have chosen.
5. Post-Adoption Support: Our support for you doesn’t end at placement. We are always here for you.

Will it cost me anything to place my baby for adoption?

No, there is no cost to you. All our services for birth mothers are completely free. This includes counseling, legal help, and support. We can also help with reasonable pregnancy-related living expenses as allowed by Louisiana law.

Can I choose the family that adopts my baby?

Yes, absolutely. You are in control of this important decision. We will provide you with profiles of hopeful adoptive families. These families have all been carefully screened by our team. You can choose the family that you feel is the best fit for your child.

What types of adoption can I choose from?

You can decide how much contact you want with your child and the adoptive family after the adoption. 

The main types are:

• Open Adoption: You can have ongoing contact through visits, letters, and pictures.
• Semi-Open Adoption: Communication is handled through our agency to protect your privacy.
• Closed Adoption: There is no identifying information shared or contact between you and the adoptive family.

We can help you understand each option so you can choose what is most comfortable for you.

What if I change my mind?

You have the right to change your mind about adoption at any point before the final legal papers are signed. We want you to be confident in your choice. Our counselors at St. Elizabeth Foundation, a trusted adoption agency near Lafayette, will offer support and guidance without any pressure. We are here to help you make the decision that is best for you and your baby.

Looking for a Lafayette Adoption Agency? Work With Our Adoption Agency in Baton Rouge

If you would like more information on our adoption services or would like to speak with a member of our team, we would love for you to reach out to us at St. Elizabeth Foundation. Our adoption agency is located near Lafayette in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Give us a call at 225-769-8888, or send us a message through our website. We look forward to giving you the guidance and support you need!

If you’re a birth mother thinking about adoption, you might be wondering what a closed adoption looks like. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, a trusted open, semi-open and closed adoption agency in New Orleans, we’re here to help you understand your options, especially if you feel more comfortable keeping things private.

Every adoption story is different, and that’s okay. What matters most is that you choose the path that feels right for you. Closed adoption can be the right fit for many women — and there is nothing wrong with wanting space and privacy during this time.

What Is a Closed Adoption?

A closed adoption means there is no direct contact between the birth mother and the adoptive family after the adoption is finalized. The adoptive parents receive only basic information — no names, addresses, or personal details.

Some birth mothers find peace knowing their decision is private. Choosing closed adoption allows you to move forward without continued involvement. You can still receive support, counseling, and medical care through your closed adoption agency in New Orleans, like St. Elizabeth Foundation.

Is Closed Adoption Right for Me?

Only you can decide what’s best for you and your baby. 

Some reasons why birth mothers choose closed adoption include:

• A need for emotional space
• Wanting to keep the adoption private
• Personal safety or family concerns
• Feeling closure helps with healing

It’s okay to want a closed adoption. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we respect your decision — always. You deserve to feel safe and supported.

Will I Ever Know About the Baby in the Future?

In most closed adoptions, you won’t have updates or contact after placement. However, some families may agree to send letters and photos to be kept on file with the agency in case you ever change your mind.

That’s the beauty of working with a trusted closed adoption agency in New Orleans — you have choices, and those choices are honored.

If you’re not sure whether closed adoption is the right fit, that’s okay, too. You can start talking to us without making any final decisions.

You’re Not Alone — And You’re in Control

No one should pressure you into open or closed adoption. This is your decision. If you’re considering closed adoption in New Orleans, St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to walk beside you — judgment-free.

We’ve supported Louisiana birth mothers since 1988. Our team is caring, local, and always available to listen.

It’s Okay to Choose a Closed Adoption

A key thing to remember is this: no matter your reasons for choosing closed adoption, it’s okay. This is a decision about you, your baby, and what feels right. Adoption is an act of love, and deciding on closed adoption can bring peace of mind, especially if you need space to heal and move forward.

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we are here to remind you that your feelings matter. Some mothers worry about judgment for wanting privacy, but we’ve helped many birth mothers with compassion and understanding as they move through the adoption process.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to talk to one of our experienced counselors. They can provide the guidance and support you need.

Next Steps for Birth Mothers

If you’re weighing your options and considering closed adoption, take it one day at a time. Educate yourself on the process, talk to professionals, and trust your instincts. St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to assist you in making a decision that aligns with your needs. Closed adoption is about trust, compassion, and ensuring that your child has a bright future.  

Have questions? Need guidance? Contact St. Elizabeth Foundation now. We’re here to offer the support you need.

Are you a mom in New Orleans who just found out you’re pregnant, but you weren’t planning to be? You might feel scared or confused about what to do next. That’s okay. Lots of women in this position feel the same way. The adoption process in New Orleans can give you another path to think about. At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we want to help you understand your choices, so you can pick what’s best for you and your baby. You are never alone.

Exploring Your Options

It’s hard to face an unplanned pregnancy, but remember, you have different options. Here’s a simple look at what you can choose:

Parenting Your Baby 

Parenting your baby is a big decision that comes with a lot of love, joy, and responsibility. It means you get to watch them grow up and be there for all of their firsts, like their first steps and first words.

Parenting also means making sure they’re safe, healthy, and cared for, which can sometimes be hard if you’re not sure you have enough time, money, or support. It’s okay to feel nervous about this choice, but remember, you don’t have to do it alone. There are family, friends, and even community programs that can help you along the way.

Adoption

Adoption means another family will raise your baby and give them love and safety. With St. Elizabeth Foundation, you get to decide how much contact you’d like to have by choosing one of these adoption options:

• Open Adoption: You can keep in touch with your child and the family who adopts them. You might call, text, write letters, or even visit sometimes. You and the new family can decide what amount of contact feels right.
• Semi-Open Adoption: If you want some contact, but not too much, we can help. You can get updates and pictures through St. Elizabeth. It keeps things private while still letting you know your child is safe and happy.
• Closed Adoption: If you want total privacy, you can choose a closed adoption. You and your child’s new family won’t keep in touch, but you can share medical information to help your child in the future.

Fostering

Foster care is when the state finds a home for a child while the birth family tries to get ready to take care of them again. It’s not the same as adoption, because the goal is often to return the child to their birth family.

Abortion

Abortion is the decision to end a pregnancy early. It’s a big, permanent decision and can be emotionally challenging to process. In Louisiana, performing an abortion is against the law. For some, choosing adoption instead of abortion can feel better emotionally because it allows their baby to have a chance at life while still offering other options for the mother.

It’s important to know about all your choices before you decide. Our caring staff at St. Elizabeth Foundation is here to talk with you about your feelings and answer any questions.

The Adoption Process in New Orleans

Adoption gives you a way to choose a loving family for your baby. You stay in control, and you can still be part of your baby’s story if you want to. Let’s walk through the adoption process in New Orleans so you know what to expect. Each step makes sure you feel supported and safe:

Step 1: Reach Out

Call us, text, or send us a message through our website. You don’t need to know what you want yet. Our team is here to listen and help right from the start.

Step 2: Talk With a Caring Counselor

You’ll meet someone from St. Elizabeth Foundation who listens to your story, answers your questions, and helps you make a plan. We care about your feelings and what you want for your baby.

Step 3: Pick an Adoptive Family

You get to choose the family you want for your baby. We’ll show you photos and stories about different families to help you pick the one that feels right.

Step 4: Get Support During Pregnancy

We know the expenses and emotional challenges of pregnancy can be difficult. St. Elizabeth Foundation helps you find support for:

• Help with living costs
• Medical care
• Someone to talk to whenever you need support

Step 6: Help After Adoption

Adoption is a huge decision with a lot of complex feelings. Even after your baby goes to their new family, we offer counseling and are here to support you as you heal and grow.

Trust St. Elizabeth Foundation

At St. Elizabeth Foundation, we have helped hundreds of women in Louisiana, including New Orleans, for over 30 years. Our team is friendly, honest, and will never judge you. And, we keep what you share private. Whether you want an open, closed, or semi-open adoption, or if you are still deciding what to do, we are here to help.

Choosing adoption is a big decision, but you don’t have to go through the process alone. If you want to know more about the adoption process or your adoption options in New Orleans, give us a call at 225-769-8888. We will answer every question, offer kind support, and be here for you no matter what you decide.